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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer Location: Annapolis Junction, MD Compensation Range: $170 - $190K *Clearance ... Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ...

Software Engineer Location: Herndon, VA *Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply ... Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ...

Software Engineer Location: Chantilly, VA *Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply ... Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ...

Software Engineer Location: Herndon, VA *Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply ... Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ...

Overview VTG is seeking a Software Engineer to support our Defense customer in Reston, VA . Our Software Engineers are at the forefront of defense technology, crafting high-impact, cutting-edge ...

Overview VTG is seeking a Software Engineer to support our Defense customer in Reston, VA . Our Software Engineers are at the forefront of defense technology, crafting high-impact, cutting-edge ...

Software Engineer 3

Annapolis, MD ยท On-site

$57 - $76.50/hr

Software Engineer 3 Location: Annapolis Junction, MD Compensation Range: $215 -$235K *Clearance ... Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ...

Sr. Imagery Software Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

Sr. Imagery Software Engineer Step into a high-impact Sr. Imagery Software Engineer opportunity with a confidential client, where you will help drive meaningful results across Aerospace / Defense.

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Showing results 1-20

Defense Software Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$71.9K

$167.1K

$232.7K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Washington is $167,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,900.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Defense Software Engineer job?

A Defense Software Engineer develops, tests, and maintains software for military and defense applications. They work on secure, mission-critical systems such as weapons control, cybersecurity, and communication networks. Their role requires proficiency in programming languages, security protocols, and compliance with defense standards. Due to the nature of the industry, security clearances and adherence to classified information policies are often required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defense Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Software Engineer, you need expertise in software development, a strong grasp of cybersecurity principles, and familiarity with defense industry standards, typically demonstrated by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Experience with programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python, knowledge of real-time operating systems, and certifications like Security+ or CISSP are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure that complex, secure, and mission-critical software solutions are effectively developed and maintained to meet stringent defense requirements.

What types of projects and technologies do Defense Software Engineers typically work on?

Defense Software Engineers often work on projects involving the development and maintenance of software for military systems, such as radar, communications, simulation, or weapons control platforms. They frequently use technologies like embedded systems, secure coding practices, and specialized hardware interfaces. Project work can range from upgrading legacy systems to designing cutting-edge capabilities, often requiring adherence to rigorous security and compliance protocols. Collaboration with systems engineers, hardware teams, and government stakeholders is typical, offering a dynamic and mission-driven work environment. This exposure helps engineers build specialized expertise while contributing directly to national security initiatives.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,085 per year, or $80.3 per hour.
Sr Software Integration Engineer- Secret Clearance- Tysons Corne with Security Clearance

Sr Software Integration Engineer- Secret Clearance- Tysons Corne with Security Clearance

Zachary Piper Solutions, LLC

Mclean, VA โ€ข On-site

$150K - $225K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Senior Software Integration Engineer to support a Government Consulting partner located in Lanham, MD (office moving to Tysons Corner, VA Summer 2026) through a hybrid onsite work environment. The Senior Software Integration Engineer will lead software integration, testing, and build automation efforts in support of U.S. defense programs and a growing U.S.-controlled software factory initiative.

Responsibilities: * Integrate firmware, embedded applications, and signal - processing software onto target hardware platforms. * Develop and maintain integration plans, build procedures, and automation scripts supporting CI/CD pipelines. * Collaborate with development, systems engineering, and test teams to define interfaces, resolve integration issues, and ensure cohesive software operation.

* Configure and maintain integration environments, including build servers, version control tools, and automated workflows. * Troubleshoot complex software and hardware integration issues, conducting root - cause analysis and implementing corrective actions. * Document build processes, integration steps, and release configurations to ensure repeatability and compliance.

* Support system-level test events by delivering stable software builds and assisting with verification activities. Qualifications: * 10+ years of experience in software integration, test, DevOps, or software engineering within defense, aerospace, radar/EW, or real - time systems. * Hands - on experience with real - time software, defense communications, radar, or EW systems within the DoD space.

* Proficiency with Python, C/C++, Bash, Git, Jenkins, GitLab CI, and similar environments. * Experience with embedded systems, RTOS, or hardware/software integration. * Ability to work proactively-self - starter, takes ownership, adaptable, and able to drive projects independently.

* Strong communication and documentation skills; comfortable working closely with interdisciplinary teams. * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical field- required. * Experience working with defense contractors, primes, or specialized software labs is beneficial.

* Clearance: ability to obtain a Secret clearance (active clearance preferred). Compensation: * Salary Range: $150,000- $225,000 (depending on experience) * Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, unlimited PTO, Sick Leave (as required by law), Paid Holidays * Relocation assistance, RSU upon hire * Clearance Level: Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and obtain/maintain an Active Secret security clearance * Location: Hybrid; onsite in Lanham, MD initially, transitioning to Arlington VA area Keywords: software integration, embedded systems, embedded software, firmware integration, real-time systems, RTOS, real-time operating systems, EW systems, electronic warfare, radar systems, defense communications, mission systems, defense software, DoD software, Department of Defense, software factory, CI/CD pipelines, continuous integration, continuous deployment, build automation, Jenkins, GitLab CI, Git, version control, DevOps engineering, integration engineer, software test, system-level testing, hardware-in-the-loop, software-in-the-loop, automation scripts, Python scripting, Bash scripting, C programming, C++ programming, signal processing software, integration environment, build servers, configuration management, root-cause analysis, troubleshooting, systems engineering collaboration, test and evaluation, defense contracting, government programs, cleared work, Secret clearance,aerospace engineering, satellite communications, space systems software, RF systems, integration plans, release management, software delivery, code integration, cross-functional teams, proactive engineer, software sustainment, small primes, defense tech, Tysons VA, Lanham MD, software lab, prototype development, hardware/software verification, US-controlled software development, mission-critical software.